EQ102 - Creativity, Culture and Learning

Module content and teaching

Principal aims

1) To critically examine contrasting definitions of creativity drawn from a range of subject domains. 2). To investigate how contrasting perspectives on creativity affect how the concept of 'being creative' is interpreted in different socio-cultural contexts. 3). To critically examine a variety of definitions of the concept of culture. 4). To explore the role of creativity and culture in the production of self, with particular reference to the influence of creativity and culture on the formation of young people's identity. Here, a particular emphasis will be placed on analysing case studies that look at different manifestations of 'youth culture'. 5). Through a range of creative exercises that emphasise theory relating to socio-linguistics and play theory, explore how creativity, culture and language interact and evolve as learners, especially young children, construct meaning and knowledge of the social worlds they inhabit. 6). Critically explore the influence of culture-based creativity on social, economic and political policy and practice. 7) Through analysis of the concept of subculture, analyse the role creativity plays in constructing collective and individual forms of aesthetic expression, voice and agency.

Principal learning outcomes

1. To become familiar with key debates and concepts relating to creativity. 2. To develop a critically focused capacity to reflect on and analyse the application of creativity within contrasting educational frameworks. 3. To understand the role of ideology in shaping personal, local, national and global attitudes to conceptualising and enacting 'creative' forms of thinking, behaving and learning. 4. To be able to critically debate and evaluate what a creative learning experience is as distinct from a non-creative learning experience. 5. To be able to critically evaluate how creativity and culture shape one's own identity as a learner, researcher and teacher.

Timetabled teaching activities

Three hours per week that will integrate lectures, seminars and practical workshops in the Spring Term